Kids need healthy teeth

Tooth decay is nothing to smile about: It’s painful, and many children with decay cannot eat or sleep properly or even pay attention in school.

Tooth decay is nothing to smile about: It’s painful, and many children with decay cannot eat or sleep properly or even pay attention in school.

The Winnebago County Dental Society wants to raise awareness of this growing problem, help make a difference and be a part of the solution.

On Feb. 2, the Winnebago County Dental Society, Winnebago County Hygiene Association, Crusader Clinic, select county agencies and other members of the community will gather at Crusader Clinic on Broadway for a very important event — Give Kids a Smile Day.

Give Kids a Smile Day is a national event in February coordinated by the American Dental Association, in which children across the country receive free oral health services.

Locally, volunteers will provide children 12 years and younger with free dental cleanings, exams and X-rays.

The event will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Crusader Clinic at 1100 Broadway in Rockford. Children will be required to have their parent or legal guardian present.

We encourage those in need to receive treatment Feb. 2. For more information, families may contact the Winnebago County Dental Society at 815-399-1797 or Crusader Clinic at 815-490-1770. Together, we can give kids a smile!